Last week, I read an article about the top twenty-five love stories in novels. Of course, I can't remember where I read it (seems like it was a link on Facebook), and now I can't find it. Anyway, it inspired me to choose my top five love stories in novels which include Jane and Mr. Rochester in Jane Eyre, Hadassah and Marcus in the Mark of the Lion series, Anne and Gilbert in the Anne of Green Gables series, Ella and Prince Char in Ella Enchanted, and Pippa and Archer in the Eldentimber series. Click on the novel or series title to learn more about each book.
As I made my selections, I discovered I chose these novels for the same reasons. First, the characters' love stories developed over time. These are not the swept-off-your-feet, love-at-first-sight stories. Each characters' love story developed over time and overcame many obstacles.
Furthermore, their relationships began as friendships. Each character developed a friendship of sorts with her counterpart that was built on respect. Both are vital to an endearing love story.
Finally, the characters' attraction to each other extended beyond the physical. Actually, several of the characters described each other as homely or simply not the best-looking. They were, however, attracted to the light of compassion and/or intellect in each other.
How about you? What literary love story do you consider one of the best? Let me know in the comments, and enjoy this video from History.com regarding the history of Valentine's Day!